Discursive Essay: Top Writing Tips and Recommendations

Discursive Essay: What Is It?

A discursive essay is a piece of formal writing that presents a discussion on a particular topic.

Discursive Essay: Structure

Introduction – in this section the topic to be discussed is clearly stated.

Main body – it consists of several paragraphs, which describe a particular exemplified or justified point.

Conclusion – the main points of the essay are summarized; the author’s opinion is stated/restated; balanced consideration of the topic is provided.

Discursive Essay: Main Types

1. Opinion essay requires author’s opinion on a topic which is stated in the introductory paragraph. It should be clearly presented and followed by reasons and/or supporting examples. Also this essay paper should contain an opposing argument that comes before the conclusion. The writer must explain readers why mentioned argument is considered to be unconvincing. The writer’s opinion should be restated/summarized in the conclusion.

2. For and Against Essay provides readers with a thorough debate on the topic with the help of opposing points of view. Each point should be discussed objectively and described in details. The introductory paragraph puts the topic under consideration. Main body of this essay paper should present examples, reasons and arguments supported by justifications. The author’s own opinion with a balanced reflections on the topic should be stated only in the conclusion.

3. Essay Suggesting Solution to a Problem discusses problems and finds main solutions. Introduction paragraph clearly states a problem and analyses its causes and consequences. Main body of the essay should offer some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and state possible consequences or expected results. In conclusion, author’s opinion should be distinctly summarized.

Discursive Essay: Basic Do’s

Write in formal, impersonal style

Introduce each point in a separate paragraph

Use topic sentences for each paragraph

Write well-developed paragraphs

Give reasons and examples for each point

Use sequencing

Use linking words and phrases

Make references to other sources

Identify used sources

Discursive Essay: Basic Don’ts

Don’t use short forms

Don’t use informal/colloquial language

Don’t use very emotional language

Don’t use over-generalizations

Don’t express your personal opinion too insistently

Don’t refer to statistics without proper referencing

Don’t use personal examples

Good luck with your discussions and discursive essays! Be sure to check out the articles on our blog for more academic wisdom!

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